Introduction

The butterfly-shaped thyroid gland controls most of the metabolic processes of the body. Thermoregulation, hormonal function, and weight management are just some of the important functions of this gland.

Those who suffer from thyroid problems can look at home remedies to deal with the issue more comprehensively.

Before we get into home remedies we need to cover the basic differences between hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism based on their symptoms: 

Based on these differences you may get an idea of which form of thyroid issue you have but always check with your doctor who will recommend a thyroid test for a clear diagnosis.

Home Remedies For Thyroid Problems

1. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has medium-chain fatty acids that help in better functioning of the thyroid gland. Coconut oil, specifically when taken in a non-heated form, helps lose weight, increases metabolism and balances body temperature.

Unlike other types of oils, coconut oil has a high content of saturated fat (healthy). With the right combination of exercise and a properly balanced diet, coconut oil could be good for thyroid glands.

• Recipe tip: Use coconut oil for your regular cooking once in a while, or switch to it completely if you like the taste  

2. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar helps in the balanced production and expression of hormones. It improves metabolism and helps to alkalize the body environment.

Apple cider vinegar helps regulate body fats, wash away toxins from the body, and absorption of nutrients. Apple cider vinegar can be added to water along with honey and can be taken every morning,

• Recipe tip: Add it to warm water to make atonic, or add it to your herbal tea of choice. For sore throats try apple cider vinegar and honey in warm water, it might give some relief.

3. Ginger

This is one of the easiest home remedies for thyroid as it is easily available. Ginger is rich in essential minerals like potassium and magnesium and helps combat inflammation, one of the primary causes of thyroid issues. It is easiest to have ginger tea.

It can also be used as an essential oil. If ginger is mixed with a carrier oil (coconut oil, for example) it can be applied to the body. Ginger oil can also be used via essential oil diffusers.

• Recipe tip: Throw in a small amount of thinly sliced ginger to your curries and stir-frys, or add it to your favourite baked items like cookies and pastries.  

4. Vitamins B

Vitamins help to fight the underlying causes of thyroid problems. Vitamins from the ‘B’ family are essential for proper thyroid function. Vitamin B12 is especially instrumental in helping people with hypothyroidism. Including eggs, meat, fish, legumes, milk, and nut in daily diet might help with a steady supply of Vitamin B.

Since the diet may not be able to meet the daily requirements, taking supplements will help.

• Recipe tip: Make a smoothie from almond milk, a dash of pineapple juice, sliced banana and pineapple, a tablespoon of flaxseeds and enjoy!  

5. Vitamin D

The deficiency of vitamin D can lead to thyroid problems. Since the body can produce it only when exposed to the sun, ensure that you get a minimum of 15 minutes of sunlight daily. This will also lead to better calcium absorption and good immunity.

Some foods that are rich in Vitamin D are fatty fishes like salmon and mackerel, dairy products, orange juice, and egg yolks. If Vitamin D levels in the body are very low, supplements will be necessary. However, one must be cautious and consult with a doctor about dosage because too much vitamin in the body can be harmful.

• Recipe tip: Bake a salmon fillet with honey glazing, serve with sauteed asparagus, and alternatively make a side dish of lentils for a warm meal.    

Also Read: 8 Most Effective Foods To Fight Thyroid!

6. Almonds

Most nuts are beneficial to the body in some way or the other. Almonds are best suited for proper thyroid expression. They are a good source of protein, fibre, and minerals.

Almonds have selenium which is a thyroid healthy nutrient. It is also very rich in magnesium that can keep the thyroid gland working very smoothly.

• Recipe tip: Eat half a handful of almonds as a snack (works as a pre or post-workout snack too!), or add it to your cakes and smoothies.    

7. Dairy Products

Milk, cheese, and yoghurt are very beneficial for the thyroid as they are high in iodine, the mineral that is essential for proper thyroid functioning. Consuming dairy products will also help with increasing vitamin levels which in turn will help with thyroid problems.

• Recipe tip: Try out yoghurt and other dairy products like cream cheese, but be careful if you have lactose intolerance.      

8. Beans

Beans are a powerhouse of nutrition. They are rich in fibre, protein, essential minerals and vitamins. Beans are rich in antioxidants and complex carbohydrates. Since beans are also very high in fibre, it helps with constipation which is a common side effect of hypothyroidism.

9. Iodine Supplements

Another thing that works in improper thyroid functioning is taking iodine supplements. This becomes more important for those who are vegetarians. These supplements restore the balance of iodine in the body and help with thyroid health.

10. Seaweed

Seaweed is a type of very large algae that grow in saltwater and marshes, it typically contains high to very high concentrations of iodine. Iodine is an essential mineral required by the pituitary gland for the formation of thyroid hormones.

However, please note, for both seaweed and iodine supplements – excessive amounts of iodine may itself result in poor thyroid function and goitre, please check with your doctor before trying either of these out. 

11. Regular Exercise

Seaweed is a type of very large algae that grow in saltwater and marshes, it typically contains high to very high concentrations of iodine. Iodine is an essential mineral required by the pituitary gland for the formation of thyroid hormones.

However, please note, for both seaweed and iodine supplements – excessive amounts of iodine may itself result in poor thyroid function and goitre, please check with your doctor before trying either of these out.

Discipline and focus is the key to good thyroid health.

People suffering from hypothyroidism should avoid excessive consumption of cruciferous vegetables(cabbage, broccoli) and soy products, these foods contain goitrogens which might interfere with the production of thyroxine hormone.

Dr. Nikhil Yadav, MBBS MD, CCEBDM

Also Read: Foods to Avoid in the Case of Hypothyroidism: A Research-Based Approach

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Read More: 8 Best Foods for Thyroid to Include in Your Diet

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